Newburgh City Council calls for special prosecutor for all police shootings

CITY OF NEWBURGH — The City Council sent letters to the Orange County and state legislatures asking for new rules that would automatically require a special prosecutor anytime a cop shoots someone.

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By DOYLE MURPHY

recordonline.com

By DOYLE MURPHY

Posted Jun. 1, 2012 at 2:00 AM

By DOYLE MURPHY
Posted Jun. 1, 2012 at 2:00 AM

» Social News

CITY OF NEWBURGH — The City Council sent letters to the Orange County and state legislatures asking for new rules that would automatically require a special prosecutor anytime a cop shoots someone.

The letter, dated May 29 and signed by the entire council, comes in response to the death of Michael Lembhard, a 22-year-old killed in March during a confrontation with police.

City leaders asked the legislators to support their request immediately in Lembhard's case.

The investigation is now in the hands of the Orange County district attorney.

"We are at very high risk for more violence and bloodshed if this case proceeds per the normal process," council members warned.

Lembhard's relatives and supporters have called for an outside investigation, protesting in large numbers after his death. Cousin Juanita King said at a recent council meeting they wouldn't riot or resort to violence.

The council's letter claims a close working relationship between police and prosecutors undermines the credibility of the district attorney's investigation.

"It does not matter that the DA's office does an outstanding job of investigation; the results will not be trusted. By definition the relationship causes a conflict of interest," the letter says.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo denied the council's previous request for a special prosecutor.